The Canal Bridge for Phase 12 of the Bayside development in Airdrie, AB involved the construction of a new single span bridge over a man-made canal. The bridge expands 12.6m over an isolated waterway, accommodating both pedestrians and vehicles.
The bridge was constructed nearby in a vacant section adjacent to the wetlands and canals. Our civil team implemented berms/barriers on either side of the canal to physically separate the construction area from the wetland areas to ensure that the canal isolation measures were properly designed and implemented to prevent any accidental encroachment or disturbance to the wetlands. The isolation measures were regularly inspected and maintained to address any potential breaches or vulnerabilities.
This project took place near a popular dog walking and leisure area for residents. As a result, we proactively constructed safe passages for residents to pass during construction. Constant maintenance of the pathways was required, as well as ensuring that it was impossible to stray into active or unsafe areas. We completed a site utilization plan with our Safety department ensuring that pedestrian access was maintained throughout various phases of the project. This access was then added to our regular inspections and all workers were oriented to the possible presence of public stakeholders on site.
The bridge construction involved the installation of steel driven piles at each abutment followed by the construction of a cast-in-place concrete abutments. The pre-fabricated concrete box girders were placed and followed by cast-in-place bridge deck, barriers, finished with metal handrails for pedestrian safety.
During this project our team fostered a proactive sustainability focus, emphasizing the significance of protecting the environment. Implementing these measures during construction activity meant all work was done with a commitment to protecting the existing vegetation, wetlands, and canals.